Sony throws gauntlet down at Xbox with cheaper, used-game-friendly PS4

Sony landed a solid counter punch on Microsoft Monday night by announcing its next-generation PlayStation 4 game console would not only cost $100 cheaper than the rival Xbox, but would come without restrictions for used games.

Sony used its E3 media briefing fire direct shots at Microsoft targeting several features that made many video game players wary of the Xbox, starting with the price – $399 in the U.S., 399 euros in Europe and 349 pounds in the United Kingdom.

Earlier in the day, Microsoft announced the Xbox would cost $499, 499 euros and 429 pounds when it goes on sale in November.

But the loudest cheers of the day erupted several times when Jack Tretton, Sony Computer Entertainment president and CEO, announced the PS4 would not impose restrictions on used disc games, would not require online authentication or even require Internet access to operate.

Microsoft has said it will allow publishers to charge a fee to play used games on the Xbox. And the Xbox will also require online authentication at least once a day to work, which among other things raised privacy concerns among critics.

“In addition to creating an amazing library of new titles on PlayStation 4, we’re equally focused on delivering what gamers want most, without imposing restrictions or devaluing their PS4 purchases,” Tretton said.

“When a gamer buys a PS4 disc, they have the right to use that copy of the game,” he said. “They can trade in the game at retail, sell it to another person, lend it to a friend. If you enjoy playing single player games offline, PS4 won’t require you to check in online. And it won’t stop working if you haven’t authenticated within 24 hours.”

And just to rub it in, Sony posted this short, but funny YouTube video showing how to share a video game:

But the video also has some fine print at the bottom that says multiplayer online games require a PlayStation Network account and Plus subscription. Sony did say that a Plus subscription would cover the PS3, PlayStation Vita and PS4.

Still, the press conference sent the Twitterverse leaning heavily in Sony’s favor, with many ready to declare a knockout victory over Microsoft.

Yet the applause inside the Los Angeles Sports Arena was only lukewarm when Sony briefly revealed the PS4’s design for the first time. The black console looks similar to the black Xbox, although with a tilt on its sides. And “Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag” stalled several times during its demo.

Also, Sony didn’t exactly say when the PS4 would go on sale, only that it would be available in the U.S. and Europe “this holiday season.”

The company also showed off other games coming out for the Vita, PS3 and PS4. Those included a promising PS4 exclusive called “The Order: 1886.”